Harshit Rana Shines on Debut, Dismisses Travis Head to Claim Maiden Test Wicket
Even if India hadn't gotten Steve Smith or Marnus Labuschagne out, the entire population of 1.4 billion back home was hoping and praying for Travis Head to fall cheaply. Over the last 18 months, Head has been a thorn in India's side, tormenting both the players and fans alike. His name was front and center on the bowlers' radar. Fortunately for India, debutant Harshit Rana provided the much-needed breakthrough, dismissing the dangerous left-hander with a cracker of a delivery that rattled the top of the off-stump.
Rana made an immediate impact right from the first ball he bowled in the eighth over after being called upon by skipper Jasprit Bumrah. Although Head hit a couple of crisp shots towards point after Harshit erred in line, his length was targeting Head's vulnerability to short-pitched deliveries. Throughout the over, Harshit peppered Head with short balls.
In his next over, Rana positioned a couple of fielders near the boundary, almost tricking Head into thinking short-pitched deliveries were on the way. But Rana adjusted, going fuller on the off-stump line and getting the ball to move slightly away, sending Head’s stumps flying. India had their man. Although Bumrah had already claimed three wickets, this one was especially sweet for the team and the entire nation.
Rana was elated, celebrating his maiden international wicket—the dangerous Travis Head, who had been looking to take on the bowlers despite Australia's difficult position. Mohammed Siraj followed up with the wicket of Mitchell Marsh, leaving Australia reeling at 38 for 5. India now hopes to wrap up the Australian innings for under 100, gaining a significant advantage going into their second batting innings.
In India's earlier innings, they were bowled out for 150 after Bumrah chose to bat first. On debut, Nitish Reddy was the highest run-scorer for India, contributing 41 off 58 balls.